Orthodontics
YOUR NEW BRACES
Now that you have braces, we would like to emphasize the importance of patient and
parent cooperation in achieving the best possible results. Lack of cooperation can extend
the treatment time that was estimated. This, plus poor compliance broken appliances and
missed appointments are all important factors which effect the length and quality of the
treatment.
Patient cooperation involves the following:
1. Brushing and flossing every day is very important. Orthodontic appliances do not
cause cavities but they may trap food and increase the likelihood of the
development of cavities or decalcification marks. After thorough brushing in the
evening, place a small amount (pea size) of the fluoride gel we provided on your
brush and go over the braces for one full minutes.
2. Avoid hard and sticky foods! Ice, Doritos, hard candy, peanuts, popcorn, etc.
might break a bracket.
3. We recommend you wear a mouth guard in any contact sport you may play.
4. If anything breaks or comes off your teeth, please call us immediately so that we
may schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
5. There is generally a little soreness in the mouth when teeth are moving. We have
found that if patients take 400 mg of ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.) every eight
hours, starting the night before the appointment, this will greatly reduce the
discomfort.
6. Keep all appointments as scheduled, including your four month cleaning and
fluoride appointments. Because of time limitations you can expect some of your
appointments to be during school hours.
7. We reserve the right to terminate treatment if cooperation is poor and therefore
potentially injurious to your dental health.
8. We have asked your parents to supervise your treatment to be sure you f9110w
these guidelines. We all need to work together to be successful.
We hope your orthodontic experience is a pleasant one and your assistance and
understanding in these matters is greatly appreciated.